The Ghana Police Service in the Ashanti South Region has successfully intercepted a large consignment of prohibited drugs along the Obuasi–Dunkwa highway, leading to the arrest of five individuals connected to the attempted distribution of the substances.
Speaking at a Press conference by the Ashanti South Regional Police Command, the seizure took place at the Tweapease Police barrier on Thursday, February 13, 2026. Officers discovered two sealed brown boxes containing 257 packs of 50mg tramadol, 58 packs of 250mg tramadol—commonly referred to as “Red”—and 58 packs of 225mg tapentadol, popularly known as “Royal.” The drugs were being transported on a red OA Kia Grandbird bus headed for Ayamfuri, near Dunkwa-On-Offin in the Central Region.
The driver of the vehicle, 37-year-old Joseph Nkrumah, was immediately arrested. During interrogation, he allegedly identified one Perpetual, a native of Ayamfuri, as the owner of the consignment.
The following day, February 14, 2026, while investigations were ongoing, Perpetual, accompanied by three women—Diana Mensah, 40; Abena Neyea, 43; and Nana Akua, 35—reportedly arrived at the same Tweapease barrier with GH¢50,000.00 in cash, allegedly intended to bribe the officers and compromise the investigation. The police, however, acted professionally and arrested all four, retaining the money as evidence.
All five suspects are scheduled to appear in court on Monday, February 16, 2026, to face charges under the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), which prohibits the sale of drugs, herbal medicinal products, cosmetics, medical devices, and other controlled chemical substances.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Joseph Hammond Nyaaba, Regional Commander of the Ashanti South Police, reiterated the Command’s firm stance against criminal activities, warning that the region remains hostile to illicit trade. He urged criminals to desist, emphasizing that the Police will continue to deploy intelligence-led operations to protect public safety.
The successful operation demonstrates the Ashanti South Regional Police Command’s unwavering commitment to curbing drug trafficking, safeguarding communities, and upholding the law.
This operation further highlights the professionalism of the Ghana Police Service and its continued efforts to ensure that Ashanti South remains a secure and safe region for residents and road users alike.
